Banner at the Walton Arts Center

Before I go any further, I have seen dozens of people assuming this production is like The Complex Tour, MegaStar Tour, brace yourselves folks, IT IS NOT! This is a traveling theatrical show of Blue Man Group’s current and most updated content, many of which the company itself had yet to see until the night of Sept. 3rd in Fayetteville. So there is no VIP backstage pass, or sticker to wear at the end of the show to go backstage. This is a theater style tour, so the lobby will be your main source of photography with the Blue Men and band. Same rules that apply to NYC, Boston, Chicago, Orlando & Las Vegas apply here. Lobby only! If you want pictures with the blue men, you’ll have plenty of time to roam the lobby, take as many photos as you want, and have ample time to interact with the performers. One more time, there is NO VIP treatment here, especially on this tour as different rules apply to different theaters and so on.

The show starts off with a new scrim, much like that of the older Luxor and MegaStar shows, but with dueling strobe effects that let you see two blue men at one time as the strobe effect switches. It’s kind of hard to describe, but this is a very new element, and the song is brand new. It combines fragmets of TV Song with elements of Above, and the new track just hits hard and rocks. Before the curtain goes up, and we see the stage for the first time, a strobe effect that is synced with the music adds to the heightened anticipation as the music builds, curtains fall, and then, bam we’re in the Blue Man’s world!

Merch Booth at the NAT

There are the tride and true skits that we Blue Man fans have come to know and love. Gumballs and Marshmallows, drumbone, Capn’ Crunch, Klein, Utne, PVC IV, Time to Start etc… But this particular new production, each skit has been totally re-imagined to fit the concept of this new cutting edge show. For example, not only is there Capn’ Crunch, but now, the stage illuminates and you see the live sound waves as each blue men chomp down on the cereal. I won’t spoil what happens with the louder Right Blue Man, you’ll just have to see it.

Signs has totally been redone, all new with digital screens that are crisp, clear and in HD. The sign’s wording is not the familiar “Naked Mermaid” material, but all new clichés with modern pop culture. For example there is a reference to Twilight on the left illuminated sign that pokes fun at teen vampires satire.

Rods and Cones is re-imagined, and with a new melody from the Zurich production that most of the US fan base has never heard. Even right down to the backpack tubulum has been paid close attention to as the tubes now illuminate in sync with the music as the Blue Men are playing them. It’s visually one of the most wildest things I’ve ever seen on a Blue Man Group stage. The wording has changed too, and new animations help convey the use of rods and cones in our eyes. A definite highlight.

Rods and Cones

A totally new concept with this new production stems from the idea of gifting people with something special, as a token of friendship and remembrance. The following quote is emphasized heavily within the whole body of the show from start to finish, and is even displayed on the big screen during seating.

Blue Man Group opening screen before the show starts.

“When you first meet people from a foreign culture, a great way to break the ice is to offer a few gifts as a gesture of friendship. It’s always good to choose items that reflect your personal interests, and it’s even better if it’s something you have created yourself. You also need to show a genuine curiosity in their interests and their culture. But ultimately, the very best way to forge a lasting friendship is to create something together: Whether it’s a meal, an art project or just a spontaneous dance party, when you create something with others, you build a connection that lasts a lifetime.”
-International Diplomacy for Dummies

You’ll find this quote a lot on this tour, and referenced multiple times by The Insiders and Blue Man Group on stage. The act of giving away something is the Blue Man’s way of connecting with his audience. So one thing you’ll see after Paint Drumming, Gumballs and Marshmallows is the Blue Men physically walking off the stage and handing the spin art and paint art to audience members. It’s a home run and we know you’ll like this new element to the show.

On a quick note, the staple skits like Feast, Tributes and Time to Start have been re-imagined as well. Without giving too much detail away, just look for the subtle changes in the feast table, background scenery behind the table etc. Tributes also now features multiple revamps as PVC House is now partially played to introduce the Vibra Slap, which leads to Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train.” Also, you’ll even hear Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance.” Let that one soak in for a while, on PVC at that!

After Rods and Cones, the show switches pace to Utne Texting Man, I think that’s what they call it. But it shows two of the animated figures texting back and forth, saying various random and funny things. The underlying melody of Utne Wire Man is there, but the song is practically redone, and a sense of hype is built up going into “Stomp Your Feet, Clap Your Hands”. The visual aspect of this piece can be seen in our video footage from the Fayetteville, AR show, but sadly translates poorly to the real thing. What you don’t see in the video is the animated figures changing and rotating rainbow colors, and their wand-airpoles creating a rainbow wave effect as it swooshes through the air. It’s pretty clever.

Utne Wire Texting

Klein has always been the pre-finale staple the Blue Man Group experience, and the NAT production is no different. Typical scenario, Blue Man goes out, combs over the crowd in search for the perfect participant to invite on stage. From here, things switch up, The sound waves from the drums are now visible on the transparent LED’s on the band lofts and the massive backdrop screen. You visually see the drums which is a great addition. The Klein video is all new of course, and is very similar to that of the cruise ship Klein video on the NCL Epic. The newest addition is the pink spray paint that is used to outline the person’s body and form. It makes for a trippy effect, and a more colorful Klein canvas.

And now, the sensory overload moment of the night comes to a massive climactic ending as every part of your brain is triggered. The Zygote Finale is one of the most innovative new concepts we’ve ever seen. It’s also an eco-friendly gesture towards the removal of paper products since Blue Man Group do their best to support “Go Green” efforts. You’ll want to climb out of your seat and shake your “Money Maker” as this catchy new track encourages a lot of butt shaking going on. The highlight is the Ethereal moment when the music calms, and an enchanting, melodic sound is played as the Zygote Balls float and hover over the crowd in almost out of body surreal moment. You glance around, massive orb zygote balls floating around, people bouncing them around, paper flying everywhere, the band are doing some sort ritual dance, and the lights changing vibrant colors will make one feel surreal, and trust me, that’s a good thing!

Zygote Finale

It all ends with Paint Drum Finale, and same as the staple skit, but with an added video effect behind the blue men. It’s kind of a blurred visual effect that as the Blue Men are drumming, you see the colors of their drums as the paint splashes upward on the massive LED screen behind them. It’s an wonderful, subtle touch to something that all fans signify with a show finale. Then we cut to lighted stage, and the band members and crew come out for final stage bow. We are left the DNA image as the Blue Man’s silhouette is all you see behind the screen.

Standing in front of Hogwarts Express

Inside Honeydukes Candy Store

Enjoying some ice cold Butterbeer, available only at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Hogwarts Castle, such a spectacular view

Hogsmeade, the pinnacle of shops, dining and fun

Standing outside of Poseidon’s Fury in the Lost Continent of Islands of Adventure

For more pictures, click here to visit my official Flickr page.

#1 – Negative Thoughts
It’s so difficult for us to change our thought processes from negative to positive. We go about our lives asking the questions: “Am I good enough? Why me? Why do I always have bad luck? Nothing I do in my life never goes right, why? I feel ugly! Why can’t I be handsome or pretty? Why can’t I lose a few extra pounds? Why do others get all the glory and fun, and I have nothing?

Thinking negative is the first process of toxic corruption in the lifestyle of the human experience. It’s a natural instinct, we all do it and some of us get completely wrapped around the idea of negative energy and anger. It’s not easy changing the way we humans think. Our brains are wired on a reward system, and when we are rewarded we repeat over and over again and again. For example, you’re fired from your job, and the only thing that comforts of you is a bowl of ice cream, or numb your hurt by drinking alcohol. Even though momentarily these things take the negativity away, it doesn’t cure or resolve what’s still going on deep within your mind. Over and over your brain reminds you that you were just fired, your wife may be cheating, your car died on the freeway, you’re not good enough. You are useless and worthless and there is no way to escape.

#2 – Fearful Thinking
Another toxic mental mechanism is the aspect of fear itself. Example, you look down at your watch, it’s 15 minutes pass time for your wife to be home from work. Psychologically, your running through scenarios; What if she’s in a accident? Will I get a phone call? Is she hurt? What if she’s dead? I can’t afford the doctor bills! Did she injure someone else? Oh gosh, what if she is dead and I have to plan a funeral, I’m just not ready for this!

Another example of fear is our very own health. I have a lot of health issues, and from time to time, I find random weird things on my body that totally boggle my brain. I recently had saliva gland blockage in my mouth, and the result was a black looking hemorrhage under my tongue. Not realizing this was a minor problem, and easily fixed with a doctor’s visit and medicine, I immediately went to the Internet, searched mouth sores, ulcers, blisters and cancer. When I came to cancer, “That’s got to be it!” I automatically assumed the worse case scenario, I had mouth cancer under the tongue, and I was automatically visualizing myself going to the hospital, having surgery, going through chemo and planning a funeral.

We as Christians and as regular living people no matter which faith you practice have the toxic effects of fear reaching into our own lives almost daily. It’s the human condition, human nature to worry and fear. But in these circumstances, we automatically have to assume the worst before we can even see the light of the best outcome. Fear isn’t of God, nor is it part of positive energy. In the example of my mouth condition, a simple doctor visit and a five day round of antibiotics cleared up my problem. But, if you were to ask me during the height of my fear and worrying, I was a goner and was bound for cancer and chemo. All I can do is chuckle and myself sometimes.

#3 – Unforgiving
Unforgiving is anger based, and is a toxic ingredient in the negative energy of our lives. For example: Someone took something of yours that you value, and you felt it was rightfully yours. They stole your happiness, and it should have been you getting the promotion at work! You hold grudges against your friends, colleagues or co-workers for their amazing success or your looming inability to achieve what they have. To not forgive and look past things that we have no control over in our lives, many times we get a sense of unforgiving, anger and resentment towards those things around us. The old saying is true, to be able to forgive is to ultimately forget. It’s not easy, by any means. But we have to take control of our thoughts and tell our brains to rewire and think thoughts of positive reinforcement. If you don’t do this regularly (positively telling yourself there is a brighter tomorrow, better outcomes, peace, love and joy), the cycle in your life of toxic living will eat away at you, and the ability of unforgiving and anger will dominantly preside.

#4 – Discontented
To be discontent with yourself is a feeling of restlessness and feeling always unhappy. Examples: I hate my looks… My body is just ugly and fat… I wish my children would behave and be better. I wish I had a better boss at work. Being discontent keeps you from being happy where you are in your life. By putting yourself down, disconnecting and always wanting something better, and following after what others have isn’t healthy nor does it radiate that positive energy we need.

Never being satisfied and always wanting more and more is severely toxic to our lives and those around us. Our thoughts of wanting something better over time becomes played out in our lives, and often times we don’t even realize it until it’s too late… when the damage has already been done. Do you really need to divorce your wife because your just not happy with her and could find a much better candidate? Do you really want a better boss at work, when you need to realize you are blessed to even be employed in the first place? If you feel you’re ugly, think about this; if you can walk, talk, have all your fingers, limbs and vital parts, should you really be complaining? We’re not a victim of circumstance, we get ourselves into those situations. What we are a victim to, is the fact we always want bigger and better.

#5 – Critical Thought
The most toxic of all, and yet the easiest one to ignore and overlook. Example: I can do that better than him! Wow, he’s way too fat to be wearing those shoes with those shorts. And this is my personal favorite, People Watching. How many times have went to the mall, sat down on a bench and just watched people. Automatically we start critiquing and mentally making ourselves better than they are. Example: Look at that couple… She’s short, he’s tall and they don’t even match. Wow, there’s a real winner, look at that hat with that shirt! Yeah, you look like you need a cookie! I wish they’d just let me do it, I’m so much better at computers than she is. Oh look.. there goes a terrorist!

Critical thought stems from a level of mental perfection that we think we have. We’re always better than others around us, and we deserve all the gifts, glamor and pampering that goes along with a rich full lifestyle. Not so… We don’t deserve anything but God’s grace and perfect love in our lives. Trust me when I say this, “Whatever you look for… is what you’ll find.”

Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Actively take control and charge of your thoughts. It’s the most challenging effort in your life. Many people feel that living life is a struggle and not fair. But the reality is the only real warfare that we wage starts in the mind. We have to take those thoughts of impurity and perfectionism and change them to something more positive. Start thinking of how blessed your life is, that you’re alive to enjoy God’s nature, beauty and grace. All negative entities give a energy of sorts. But it doesn’t give life, rather it drains it totally. People find themselves addicted to drama, and the whole world around it. It’s as if they are living their lives within the lives of others and the chaos surrounding it. And to them, they feel that’s “how they live life.” Take your mind to another place, and not to sound cheesy, but to a happy place. When you have negative thoughts, fear, worry, unforgiving anger, discontented, or being critical of others, take your mind to a time when something amazing, exciting and happy took place in your life. Whether that is when you took your kids to Disney World for the first time, or when you’re at the beach hearing the ocean waves crashing in. The key to cleaning up the toxic waste dump in your own life doesn’t start with fate, karma, drama or unforeseen circumstances. You have to take control of your life, empower your mind, and more importantly, let God do the guiding of steps in your life. BP Oil may have a mess on their hands in the Gulf of Mexico, and scientists say it will be literally decades before it all is cleaned up. You, on the other hand, can clean up your own oil spill by surrendering to a high calling in your life, and changing the way you think. Replace toxic thoughts with God’s Truth!

“Life is like the ultimate poker game… Everyone is dealt a different hand, but it’s up to us on how we play the game called life.” — Joseph Burke (2005)

T-bone is unlike any musician/vocalist I’ve ever met, encountered or had the pleasure of listening to. His raw talents stem from his his passion for music and the blues, and that energy is conveyed to audiences on stage when he performs live. From his sultry tunes like “Up On My Feet” and “After All” that will have crowds dancing and clapping to the rhythmic melodies and soulful tunes like “Let It Go” and “Oh No” they all have a place in the life and person behind the title T-bone. His passion for nostalgia and the love of the blues resonates in every song he performs live on stage.

Mid October, 2008, cold nights outside just before the briskness of Winter, on Main Street in downtown Whitesburg, KY is where many performers came to share their craft at Summit City Lounge. One could hear the raw uncut melodies of T-bone echoing out onto the streets of downtown Whitesburg during Wednesday night “Open Mic.” T-bone, along several others got their notoriety performing on the Summit City stage. It just seemed like his music fit the mood and vibe and what everyone in the lounge was feeling at that moment, at that very time. His music not only connects with people, but it makes you stop, listen and think about your own walk in life. To quote one of my favorite T-Bone compositions, “Take me, down the riverside, dip my head in, cool me off, black snake is coiled around the tree again, watch your step now, too late. My Sins they’re sinking to the bottom below, the Devil’s waitin’, back on the shore.” The meaning and depth of his music can have multiple interpretations, and ultimately it’s up to us to decide on what it all means.

It has been an honor knowing, working with and performing on stage with T-bone, and if you’ve ever had the opportunity to see him perform live on stage, you’ll know exactly what this all means. He just isn’t another would be performer, T-bone has lived the life, dove down into the miry pits and come to the surface to write and sing about it. Check out my friend coming up at the Russell County Fair in Castlewood, VA this September 7th, 2010. The fiar runs Sept. 3-11, and features some of the greatest talents from all genres of music. Support your local music festival, go out, enjoy life in song! You won’t be disappointed.

Joseph Burke,
Orlando, FL
(formerly of Neon, KY)

Tbone on MySpace:
http://www.myspace.com/tbonemusic009
http://www.myspace.com/scratchrivertelegraph
http://www.myspace.com/thebenwaysmusic

Sometimes, being able to spend time with family doing nothing is the best medicine for the soul. This was the idea for our trip this time to Cape Coral, FL to relax, don’t plan anything and just see where the trip took us. From the fun swimming in my in-laws brand new in-ground pool to Moonlit walks on Fort Myers Beach, the trip was calming, rejuvenating and most of all relaxing. Thanks to Danny & Mary for always being such wonderful hosts and great family. This video is dedicated to you both, and the love that Alexandra and I both share.

Ten years ago when I started out on this path to follow the show, actors and performers, never did I dream my ambitions would land me the role of Insider. Attending countless tour stops of The Complex Tour, MegaStar Tours 2.0 and 2.1, I’ve accumulated a wealth of knowledge about the show, mechanics, behind the scenes and more importantly, I’ve kept the mystique surrounding the Blue Man and the world he lives within intact. There really is nothing like Blue Man Group, and truth is, there never will be.

My involvement with Blue Man Group has completely changed my life in such an incredible way. Two years ago, at a Fan Meet gathering from the online community, an event that I planned and hosted at Universal Studios Sharp Aquos Theater, I met my future wife. Alexandra Irick came into my life sharing the same passion that I had for Blue Man Group, and together we became increasingly involved with the company. Little did we know, our love for the show and company would be put to proper use this year with the announcement of an exciting new era in the Blue Man World, The Insiders.

ABOUT THE INSIDERS
Our exciting new Blue Man Group Insiders will bring you first-hand news, buzz, and information from the front lines of the Blue Man experience. They’ll be traveling backstage at shows and events, roving through audiences to find the “Ultimate Blue Man Fan,” and providing audience members with a bunch of cool surprises along the way.

The Insiders are no strangers to Blue Man Group. Joe Burke, previously the head of the long running fan-site Blue Man Library and web entrepreneur along with Alex Irick, Blue Man fan since 2007, will be hitting the road to bring you behind-the-scenes action and access to exclusive content. It’s fresh, fantastic and an exciting new way to engage yourself in the realm of all things Blue Man Group!

Joe Burke was hosted by Norwegian Cruise Lines on board Norwegian Epic for a short two-night preview cruise. Follow @rotcav on Twitter for live reports, photos and videos and check here on Blue Man Group Insiders official Facebook for more details and answers to your questions for all things blue. For more photos from the NCL Epic, visit my flickr page.

After the Norwegian Epic has made her debut early in July, she will continue to sail out of the Port of Miami alternating between Western and Eastern cruise routes. The Western Caribbean stops include beautiful ports of call in Mexico and Honduras. In the Eastern Caribbean, guests will be able to indulge in the beauty of St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and The Bahamas. The Epic’s second season in May-October 2011 will take her transatlantic to sail out of Barcelona Spain and will feature seven day cruises with stops in Florence/Pisa, Napes Italy, and Palma, Majorca Spain.

Upon arrival to the Port of Miami, we were able to check in quickly and hop on board within no time. I like the fact that we were able to carry our own luggage to our rooms ourselves. I find this much more convenient than some other cruise lines as I previously have attended. Usually the larger bags have to be checked and delivered to your room. (Now keep in mind that this was the inaugural sailing and check in may be different during a normal scheduled cruise.) The first thing I noticed after arriving onboard was the beauty of this ship. Everything is so rich, colorful, and elegant looking. From the up-lighting, to the colors, to an amazing chandelier in the middle of the promenade (which you couldn’t help but to stop and look at each and every time you pass by) everything will trigger your senses in multiple aspects.

I was thoroughly impressed once we arrived to our room. We were lucky enough to be able to get a balcony suite with an amazing view of the ocean. The balcony rooms have a bit of a curve around the walls to make it look larger than it really is. The TV is a plasma flat-screen; there is a sitting area, vanity area, and plenty of room for your luggage. The walk in shower actually opens up into the main room area, but curtains are provided for privacy. Other room options are inside rooms, deluxe balconies, spa balconies, and of course deluxe owner’s suites. The Epic also caters to the single traveler, which really impresses me. There are studio suites designed for solo travelers with their own private room, bed, and bathroom area. The singles are given access to a living room area to hang out with other solo travelers. I like the idea of this as I’ve always been an independent person. If I were single I would definitely take advantage of the studio suites.

The pool and outdoor area on the Epic was impressive as it features their first ever aqua park at sea featuring 3 waterslides. Imagine a full on water park while sailing in the middle of the ocean. The Epic plunge is one of the more popular slides as it represents a large bowl through a 200 foot long tube. The purple waterslide will propel you right through the rock climbing wall, and the green slide is 3 stories high and has plenty of twists and turns. There are a total of 2 main pools, 5 hot tubes, and a children’s play area. If rock climbing is something that interests you, you can choose to either rappel down the wall, or climb 33 feet up the wall. The Epic also caters to the health conscious and athletes with fitness centers, basketball court, volleyball court, and even an ice skating rink. Ice skating in your bathing suit? Now that’s Epic!

The Epic features entertaining show such as Blue Man Group, Cirque Dreams, Legends in Concert, The Second City Comedy Troupe, and Nickelodeon at Sea. There is also plenty of nightlife, casinos, bars, and dance clubs along with 4 onboard bowling alleys. They also feature something very unique called Spice H2O. During the day it is used as a pool area, but at night the water is covered with a dance floor. Lights, music, and drinks take over this area with tiered seating and lounge chairs facing the dance floor. There is also a first ever on Norwegian Cruise Line, an Ice Bar. Everything is made of ice including sculptures and chairs. Worried about getting too cold? Have no fear as warm fur coats are provided before entering the bar. Another popular nighttime hang out is Club Bliss which features more of an adult oriented theme and a sensual atmosphere. I like how upon entering Club Bliss there is mist coming from the ceiling with projection imaging. There are DJ’s, dance cages and floors, a bowling alley, an erotic seating area including a bed; oh my!

Don’t worry about going hungry on the Epic! There are over 20 dining options featuring a culinary experience from around the world. There is also a more casual dining area, The Garden Café, which is more popular at breakfast and lunch featuring a huge buffet with sandwiches, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, Asian foods, Indian foods, soup, salad, and so much more! If you want to experience a more cultural culinary experience I recommend making reservations before sailing on your cruise. The more popular restaurants, to name a few, Cagneys Steakhouse, Le Bistro, Moderno Churrascaria, and La Cucina, tend to book up very quickly and it’s nearly impossible to get in without a reservation. Some of the less crowded restaurants in the evening are the Manhattan Room and Taste, which have a traditional dining room feel on a cruise ship.

Joe and I have attended this cruise on behalf of Blue Man Group and this was our main focus so I will give a brief summary and some advice based on my experience. First off, good news for Blue Man fans; the shows are free! Second, I recommend making reservations for the Blue Man shows. Yes, you need reservations just like you need to buy tickets at one of the main venues. I did notice that the second show was completely booked for the last evening on our cruise. There are no assigned seats and its first come first serve. The front row does tend to be popular and if you want a front/center seat I recommend arriving at least one hour prior to your show. I was highly impressed as I walked into the 681 seat theatre as it looks very similar to the land venues, but still has a cruise ship feel to it. Joe and I got to explore the backstage area while onboard. It was a little cramped but all in all, it felt like a normal Blue Man area with all the paint, props, PVC’s, and drums. Joe and I got to see two out of the four shows on our cruise. The show is eighty minutes long featuring the most popular acts shown on land venues with a couple of new surprises. They even featured their popular feast girl skit and fan favorites such as Drumbone, PCV IV, Time to Start, and the wildly sensational paper finale at the end. On a typical cruise, Blue Man Group will perform eight shows during a seven night cruise.

During our first adventure with the Blue Man Insiders, we got a little down time with the guys. We had a blast being able to do an elevator interview, (which you have to see to believe) joined the guys for a couple of fun activities on the ship, and attend a press conference. My main question for the guys was; what are the challenges of performing on a boat verses a land venue? The guys answer was simply that main challenge of doing this show on a boat is the movement of the ship during the middle of the show. This was the answer I was looking for and I knew this could affect the show in some way. They said that sometimes the movement of the boat can cause things like the TV head skit to become a bit unstable and can offer challenges for the chair walking skit.

All in all, I was very much impressed with our cruise. I’ve never had the chance to sail with NCL and will definitely be cruising with them in the future. Everything from the dining choices, to the entertainment, to the nightlife, the ship lived up to it’s name and has proven itself truly innovative. My advice to you is to make sure you are ready for fun in the sun, have your reservations made, and come with an open mind and you’ll be sure to have an epic time on the new Norwegian Epic!

Alex Irick was hosted by Norwegian Cruise Lines on board Norwegian Epic for a short two-night preview cruise. Follow @TheBlueGirlAlex on Twitter, and for live reports, photos and videos and check here on Blue Man Group Insiders official Facebook for more details and answers to your questions for all things blue.

What is the best way to navigate the ship and know where I’m going?
When arriving on board, you are given a mini pocket guide that you can easily slip into your pocket or carry item while browsing the ship. The guide is broke into categories based on where you want go. Example if you’re looking into dining options, just look under dining and it will list all restaurants, their location and deck number. The same is true for entertainment, whether you’re seeing Second City, Cirque Dreams, Blue Man Group, Legends in Concert or other shows, those categories are listed as well under Entertainment. Getting from point A to B is easy, and elevators located on multiple locations throughout the ship make deck hopping and maneuvering simple and fun.

Does it cost extra to see Blue Man Group on The Epic?
That’s the beauty of this ship, nothing costs extra! But if you’re looking to see a particular show, IE: Blue Man Group, than I would recommend making reservations on the ship 45 days in advance. The ship allows a certain amount of people to book their shows in advance and then they cut it off. So say you’re 15 days from your cruise date, and you attempt to make Blue Man Group seat reservations, chances are you won’t get them, and you’ll be placed into the stand-by category, which isn’t bad either. Once you arrive on the ship, it’s best to go straight to the box office, located on Deck 6 and make your reservations as stand-by. Chances are, you’ll have no issues getting in to see the show, and shouldn’t encounter any issues with reserving your stand-by seat(s). The same can be done for other entertainment shows, dining options and other areas that require a reserve list in advance. The quicker you reserve, the better off you are, and it costs nothing extra.

What can I expect when I get to the theater the night of my show? Is there show similarities to existing venues nationwide?
Upon arrival at The Epic Theater, you’ll notice a very 40-50′s style, that pays homage to the old school days of theater and vintage productions. Laced with lights, dancing girls and retro images and decor, the theater is about the size of the Briar Street Theater in Chicago, seating just over 600 guests, with balcony and lounge style viewing available as well. You will also notice some distinct familiarities if you’ve seen Blue Man Group prior to getting on the ship. For example the entrance music “Dulcimer” plays like all venue shows, and the LED boards light up about 10 minutes to show time with the usual wording like from USA theatrical productions. Once the show starts, one will notice core elements adapted from the Rewired/Orlando productions have made their transition onto The Epic’s stage. The showtime runs about 80 minutes or less, and there is a brief and short meet and greet to your right balcony as you exit the theater. An announcement will be made after the show is over about where to meet and have your picture taken with the Blue Man Group. Also, merchandise exclusive only to NCL The Epic is available just outside the theater at the box office area, so check out the new gear.

How is the Internet availability on the ship?
Pretty much like every other cruise, hit and miss. As you sit down to open your laptop, you go to your browser, create a username/password and enter your date of birth and stateroom #. You then select from a variety of data plans with the highest/longest plans per minute resulting in the better values overall. Keep in mind, this is a satellite connection and not broadband, so signal and speed is not the best, and the ship is always moving which makes from some connection lag and downtime. If you’re wanting to simply check your email, then I highly suggest late night or early mornings when traffic is minimal and signal is best. Also, to avoid those data-roaming charges on International waters, I recommend turning on the Airplane Mode on all handheld PDA’s and cells, or turning off the 3G-Cellular functions. Otherwise, if left on, you could charged a hefty penalty by your cell phone carrier for International rates and texts, especially iPhone users. On a personal note, if you’re on a 5-7 day cruise, the last thing you would want is Internet, but that’s my personal opinion. Enjoy the islands, nightlife, dining and entertainment, and worry about your emails, Internet and Facebook when you get back on land.

I’m traveling single, and am going to enjoy the nightlife, entertainment and cruising experience. Are there options for me since I’m traveling solo?
There are! THE NCL Epic offers a new room called the studios. It’s a small room, kind of the size of college dorm, but targeted to the young, single crowd. So, unless you’re wanting to pay more for a bigger room with a bigger bed for two or family of 3 or more, the single option is the way to go.

Joe Burke was hosted by Norwegian Cruise Lines on board Norwegian Epic for a short two-night preview cruise. Follow @rotcav on Twitter for live reports, photos and videos and check here on Blue Man Group Insiders official Facebook for more details and answers to your questions for all things blue. For more photos from the NCL Epic, visit my flickr page.

Look for full videos and photos up on the official Blue Man Group Insiders Facebook next week. If you haven’t clicked the like button on the page, please do so and stay up to date with me Alex as we begin our many travels together between now and Summer 2011 for Blue Man Group. It’s going to be an amazing ride, and we’re inviting you to hop along with us for the fun and excitement.

Here are some fun facts about the newest Norwegian cruise ship EPIC.
* Gross Tonnage: 153,000
* Length: 1,068 feet / Beam: 133 feet
* Passengers (double occupancy): 4,228 guests / 1,690 crew
* Maiden Voyage: June 21, 2010
* 7-NT East & West Caribbean Cruises from Miami, FL – Sails July 2010 through April 2011
* 7-NT Mediterranean Cruises from Barcelona – Sails May through October 2011
* 20 Dining Options
* 20 Bars & Lounges
* The Aqua Park / Main Pool
* 1 Kid’s Pool / 6 Hot Tubs
* Exclusive Villas Complex
* Spa Suites & Spa Staterooms
* Studios & The Living Room
* Family Accommodations
* All Oceanview staterooms have Balconies
* 2 Bowling Alleys
* Climbing & Rappelling Walls
* Epic Casino
* 4 Adult-Only Clubs
* Mandara Spa & Beauty Salon
* Pulse Fitness Center
* Entertainment featuring Blue Man Group & the Second City Comedy Club

Follow my Tweets and check-ins @rotcav
All content and media for the Norwegian EPIC and future travels will be posted on our official Facebook: Blue Man Group Insiders.
To track the live coverage of this event on Twitter: #NCLepic or #EpicMiami.

Look for us, who knows, you could be picked to be an exciting part of the show!

So, it’s always been one of those post-teen goals to meet the man behind the mask, in this case Darth Maul from Star Wars : Episode I – The Phantom Menace. I’ve never officially attended a sci-fi convention like Dragoncon or Comicon. So getting to meet some of my favorite celebs who have portrayed some of the best roles in modern day pop culture isn’t exactly the easiest task to accomplish. I know that Disney’s Star Wars Weekends would be my one chance to meet Ray Park for the first time, and congratulate him on a great season of NBC’s Heroes, and his previous roles as Snake Eyes in GI-Joe and Star Wars. All three franchises are etched into society as cult pop culture mainstays. Here’s how my experience that day unraveled, from start to finish.

Having a hunch that this undertaking might be large scale, and difficult to pull off, I knew I had to get up before dawn that morning if I wanted to guarantee my chance at a fastpass ticket to meet Ray Park. Having read previous encounters at Star Wars weekends online, and how the whole process works, on top of that this being the last weekend for Star Wars Weekends, I had to have both persistence and a lot of patience. You have to imagine, hundreds of people will be in line ahead of me to get their ticket, I had to play my cards just right. The whole Disney undertaking is like this: 1) To meet and get autographs with celebrity actors, you have to be in a special line cue before the park opens up clearly marked outside the main entrance before you walk up through the security bag check. 2) At 8:45am, Disney cast members would hand out the fastpass tickets to each person in line with proof of admission, annual pass-holders or Disney Resort cards. 3) If you missed your chance at getting a fastpass before you get up to the cast member handing out the tickets, you “could” be given a stand-by card that didn’t guarantee you could meet the celebrity actors, but if time allotted, you may have a chance if the actors wanted to sign more autographs. So, Alex was set to get up at 5:20am, and leave by 6:20am for work on the morning 11th of June, and I left her a note on her laptop the night before “Please wake me up before you leave.” She knew what I was doing, and why I was going, and like a true trooper had no gripes and was fully supportive of my chance to meet my favorite action star. So, she woke me up at 6:15 on the morning of June 11th, and I kissed her good bye and walked her to the door as she left for work and quickly jumped in the shower and was out the door by 6:45.

Upon arrival at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, I noticed there was cars already in the parking lot, and these cars was not in the cast member lot, it was public parking. Fearful that my chances were suddenly going downhill, I quickly parked and hustled over to the main entrance where I saw from a distance a massive line already formed. Quickly finding the right line for Ray Park, I sat there talking to those around me for the next 2 hours until 8:45am came. It was brutal, the sun the was hot, and the bath I just took didn’t even put a dent in what I was already feeling like that morning. Hot, sweating and needing something cold to drink, I was patient and stuck it out. There had to be at least 150-200 people in line ahead of me when I got in line.

Talking to others around me, we were all fearful that there was so many in line, we would just get stand-by passes and not the actual guaranteed fastpass. I was nervous, irritable and very frustrated, but I stayed and waited it out. 8:45am came, and the cast members walked the entire length of the line cue’s saying “Have your bags out for security and line up single fine one behind the other.” You could only imagine what was going through my head at this point: “Should I leave?” “Am I wasting my time?” “Is this really worth it?” “Gosh my back is sweaty.” Yeah, that’s just a few examples of what I was thinking. The line began moving forward, and I saw the area where the cast members where hand delivering the fastpasses to all those in line. I heard one guard say to other as I passed by, “A large group of kids where here last night at 9pm and camped out to get tickets for Ray Park.” Well that just made my situation a lot more stressful and less inviting. But the line kept inching up, one by one, the passes were being handed out. Would I get one? Would it be a stand-by? Will they run out? The line was getting closer and closer to the cast member when I was just 5 people away from getting my ticket in hand. I looked at my peers around me and we all high-fived each other as we all got the actual fastpass to see Ray Park. My time was between 2:35-2:50pm in the afternoon. This was perfect! I got to roam the park, snap pictures, watch the Star Wars celebrity motorcade and interact with some of Star Wars’ greatest characters like Chewbacca and R2-D2.

This was a site for sore eyes, I was in the park and I look up at Star Wars storm troopers were cracking jokes at the people below entering the park. I felt a sense of happiness and joy, kind of like the giddy feeling you get as a child when your mom buys you that toy you’ve been wanting because you were a good boy! Here are some snaps I took while roaming Hollywood Studios during Star Wars Weekends.

At first I got a little fumbled for words when I asked him to sign my action figure of Darth Maul, so I paused and took a breath and then starting talking about my favorite TV show, Heroes. I told him I missed the show, and missed seeing him as Edgar from the series. The conversation grew and I naturally felt a little at ease. For the first time, Ray wasn’t plastered on the silver screen, but standing right in front of me and we’re both were having intelligent conversation about something that wasn’t even Star Wars, NICE! I think he liked that even more, and was so polite to answer questions and listen to what I had to say. He wasn’t the typical Hollywood glitzy glamor type either, and was perceived as being very humble and down to Earth. I was pleasantly surprised that Ray was such a nice guy, and I was hoping that he wasn’t the typical ego type.

With Blue Man Group co-founders Chris Wink on left, and Phil Stanton on the right.

Documenting the Lips & Eyes Shoot at BMP’s 3rd Street “Playground” space.

With Blue Man Group at the Astor Place theater. This is senior blue man, Randall Jaynes.

Alexandra with senior blue man actor Brian Scott at Astor Place Theatre.

This trip was mainly focused around a business aspect, but there was some down time to enjoy the sites and sounds that this great city has to offer. NYC has a heart that will never stop beating, a conscious that will never be altered and a spirit unlike non-other. There is bad in NYC, but the good most certainly outweighs the bad in retrospect. Alexandra and I got the chance for the first time to hang out in the most somber places in the city, Central Park. Not only was the romantically invigorating, but peaceful at the same time. Watching the ducks, turtles and geese swimming around the pond calmed me right down and gave the chance for me and my lovely wife to be to take it all in, slow down and think about all the blessings that has just been granted to us in life. Count your blessings, daily, it will motivate you to keep fighting the good fight.

Me and Alexandra at Central Park on the corner of 59th.

Central Park bridge, noted in many movies and NYC landmark.

Alexandra loving every minute of riding the NYC Subway

We also got the chance to to see our first official Broadway musical, “American Idiot the Musical” inspired by the rock band Green Day. Sitting there, watching the songs of the album by Green Day “American Idiot” come to life on stage gave new meaning to me in the times we’re living in. Green Day are geniuses when it comes to the concept of this album, and really speaks as a rock anthem to the society when you study the lyrics closely. Not many artists/bands compose such masterpieces these days, and the whole album is really a reflective glimpse of society and living life in a post 9-11 era of New York City. Overcoming drug addiction, being recruited by the military and living life as a deadbeat was the underlying themes for this production, and it was grounded by phenomenal acting, harmonic singing and a rock atmosphere that was just as electric as a concert performed by Green Day themselves. There were scenes of the production that almost tugged at your heart and made you emotional when reflecting back on the events of September 11th, and Green Day’s song “Wake Me Up When September Ends” flowing beautifully into this selection. Wow… I highly recommend you see and experience this production at Times Square in New York, and here’s two little tips for those of you planning to see it. Tip #1, As you exit the theater, take the time to add your signature to the hallway leading into the lobby, make your mark, say something, and you’ll be a part of Broadway history. Tip #2, As you exit the theater entirely, hang by the barricades outside and be patient as the performers come out of the theater to sign autographs and take photos with their beloved audiences. The actors are so polite and considerate, they really make you feel appreciative, so don’t by shy in asking for a photo and signature on your PlayBill.

The “Fan Wall” of guest signatures which covers the entire entrance hallway to the St. James theatre.

Alexandra signing the “Fan Wall” after the show.

Alexandra with 2010 Grammy Performer and American Idiot cast member Rebecca Naomi Jones.

There was so much more things that happened on this trip that I would love to talk about, but I’m holding back. Another time, another blog another chapter. Blessings to you all!

Me and Alexandra, taking it all in before we ended our night at Times Square.

View from Times Square, and how we rounded up our NYC travels on day two.

For more pictures from this trip, click here to visit my Flickr page.